Baked Barbecue Chicken Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Meal
This baked barbecue chicken recipe is a winner! It's easy to make, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect balance of smoky sweetness and tender, juicy chicken. Forget greasy, messy grilling – this method delivers amazing flavor with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) – You can substitute with individual chicken pieces, adjusting baking time accordingly.
- 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce – Experiment! Sweet, smoky, spicy – it’s all good.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to BBQ Perfection
Preparing the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful rub.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it gets into all the nooks and crannies. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
Baking the Chicken:
- Place the chicken in a baking dish. A roasting pan works well, but any oven-safe dish will do.
- Pour half of the barbecue sauce over the chicken, basting it evenly.
- Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
- During the last 15 minutes of baking, brush the remaining barbecue sauce over the chicken. This adds extra flavor and creates a beautiful glaze.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Tips for Extra Delicious Baked Barbecue Chicken:
- Use high-quality barbecue sauce: The better the sauce, the better the chicken!
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Allow for good air circulation around the chicken for even cooking.
- Basting is key: Frequent basting ensures the chicken stays moist and flavorful.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Get creative with your sides: This baked barbecue chicken pairs perfectly with coleslaw, corn on the cob, potato salad, or your favorite BBQ sides.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your BBQ Experience
This incredibly versatile dish is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend barbecue. Consider serving your baked barbecue chicken with:
- Classic sides: Coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, corn on the cob.
- Grilled vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers add a fresh, healthy element.
- Rice or pasta: A simple side of rice or pasta complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Fresh bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious barbecue sauce.
This baked barbecue chicken recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. Enjoy!
